[justshutupandtakeit]

Nonsense. There was never any such understanding. If the 2d used the term "weapons" there might be a scintilla of evidence for that interpretation.

Using the term "arms" limits the concept extensively.

[ctdonath2]

There was never any such understanding.

Bull. That IS the standard understanding. The government has no rights, only powers (based on individual rights) granted by the people.

[Another-MA-Conservative]

Nonsense. There was never any such understanding. If the 2d used the term "weapons" there might be a scintilla of evidence for that interpretation. Using the term "arms" limits the concept extensively.

Uh, no, you are a drawing a distinction based on modern definitions that did not exist at the time the Constitution was framed.

The founders had just thrown-off their own tyrannical government. Why would they chose to form a new one and give it exclusive power to once again impose tyranny?